Periodontics

Periodontal Care in Durham. NC

Dr. Clifton has been serving the community of Durham, NC for over 20 years to help each individual achieve, enhance and maintain healthy smiles. He is a well-rounded dentist who provides general dentistry to all ages and also specializes in cosmetic, endodontic, preventative and periodontal treatment. Learn more about the importance of periodontal care and healthy gums below.

Basics Of Periodontics

Periodontics is a specialty within dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the gums around your teeth. The word “periodontal” refers to the gums, or tissue, around your teeth. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an inflammatory condition that affects those tissues, and if not treated, can negatively affect the jawbone. The most common underlying cause of gum disease is plaque. Our mouths are full of bacteria and when bacteria combine with other particles and mucus, a sticky colorless plaque is formed on teeth. This is why it is so important to practice good oral care, flossing and brushing multiple times a day.

Periodontic Stages

Gum disease has three stages. Too much bacteria, plaque and tartar in your mouth can cause a mild degree of gum disease referred to as gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums. If gingivitis is not treated, gum disease can move into the moderate range of gum disease called periodintitis. After that stage, if still not treated properly, your gums will pull away from the tooth or teeth and form pockets that are susceptible to becoming infected (the periodontitis stage). As the bacteria in the plaque spreads and grows below he gum line, naturally your body’s immune system will attempt to fight it. If this worsens, the bones, gums and tissue that support the teeth can be destroyed causing the teeth to eventually loosen making an extraction necessary.

Symptoms Of Gum Disease

Unfortunately, periodontal-related problems are often discovered after they have persisted for an extended period of time. Be sure to contact us if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

Bad Breath That Won’t Do Away.

Red or Swollen Gums.

Tender or Bleeding Gums.

Painful Chewing.

Loose or Sensitive Teeth.

Receding Gums or Longer Appearing Teeth.

Treatments For Periodontics

There are numerous treatments, surgical and non-surgical, depending on the condition of your teeth, gums and jawbone. Some common treatments available are:

Scaling & Root Planing.

Pocket elimination Surgery.

Dental Implants. Tissue Regeneration.

Schedule An Appointment Today!

Thank you for choosing The Office of Dr. Thomas Clifton for you dental and periodontal needs. We are dedicated to providing the best care and ensuring that our patients are educated in conditions, treatment and prevention. If you would like more information about our general dentistry, periodontics or our other services, please contact our office and speak to one of our staff members. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, please call and schedule an appointment to come meet with us in our office today. We look forward to seeing you smile!